Pleated shades can be part of an inexpensive kitchen facelift

Easy kitchen upgrades include painting cabinets and choosing new hardware for doors and drawers.

Kitchen renovations are often the most expensive makeovers that homeowners can undertake. But some small-scale changes can give a tired kitchen décor a facelift without the full-tilt cost.

If the cabinets are in good condition, they can be painted for an entirely new look. A change in hardware is also an inexpensive way to change the style of the doors and drawers. For a customized cabinet look, different colors can be used for the upper and lower cabinets.

According to Better Homes and Gardens magazine, ripping out a worn linoleum surface may reveal a hardwood floor beneath that can be refinished to its former glory. If all that's revealed is a base floor, there are easy-to-install floor tiles available in a range of styles and prices.

Pleated shades are a versatile choice for a kitchen window treatment. They stack tightly when raised to let in light, but can be adjusted to any length for less light. Pleated window shades provide the same privacy as regular shades, and come in a variety of materials, colors and finishes to match any home decorating scheme.

To offset a neutral wall color, a bright tile backsplash can be installed as a do-it-yourself project and create a colorful focal point above the appliances.